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Reds, FOX19 NOW Partner to Offer Free Games

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  Published in Media and Entertainment on Monday, March 9th 2026 at 14:22 GMT by WXIX-TV
      Locales: Ohio, UNITED STATES

CINCINNATI, OH - March 9th, 2026 - In a move hailed by fans and local media alike, the Cincinnati Reds and FOX19 NOW have announced a groundbreaking partnership that will make select Reds games available for free over-the-air and via streaming. This initiative, revealed today, aims to broaden access to America's pastime for all Cincinnatians, particularly those who have been priced out of traditional cable or comprehensive streaming packages.

For years, regional sports network (RSN) exclusivity has created challenges for baseball fans. While offering high-quality broadcasts, RSNs often come with significant subscription costs, effectively limiting viewership. The Reds, under the leadership of principal owner Bob Castellini, have clearly recognized this growing barrier to entry and are proactively addressing it. "We're excited to partner with FOX19 NOW to bring Reds baseball to even more fans," Castellini stated. "This partnership allows us to reach fans who may not have traditional cable or streaming subscriptions, providing an accessible way to enjoy the games."

The partnership leverages FOX19 NOW's existing broadcasting infrastructure and its burgeoning streaming service. FOX19 NOW will broadcast the games over-the-air using their established signal, ensuring coverage for households equipped with an antenna. Simultaneously, the games will be available on the FOX19 NOW streaming platform, accessible on a variety of devices including smart TVs, smartphones, tablets, and computers. This dual approach significantly increases the potential reach, catering to both traditional and modern viewing preferences.

Richard Mulcahy, FOX19 NOW General Manager, echoed the sentiment, stating, "FOX19 is proud to be partnering with the Reds to bring this exciting opportunity to our viewers. We are committed to providing local content and this partnership is a great way to serve our community." This collaboration isn't just about baseball; it's about strengthening the bond between a beloved sports team and the local community it represents.

A Growing Trend in Sports Broadcasting

The Reds-FOX19 NOW deal isn't an isolated incident. Across Major League Baseball, teams are increasingly exploring alternative broadcasting models to reach wider audiences. The rise of streaming services has disrupted the traditional sports broadcasting landscape, prompting teams to re-evaluate how they deliver games to fans. Several teams are experimenting with direct-to-consumer streaming platforms, while others, like the Reds, are partnering with local broadcasters to offer free over-the-air options. This shift is driven by a desire to combat cord-cutting and attract a new generation of fans.

Industry analysts predict this trend will continue to accelerate in the coming years. The cost of sports subscriptions has become a major point of contention for many households, and teams are realizing that accessibility is key to long-term sustainability. By offering free options, they can maintain fan engagement and build a loyal following. The MLB recently completed its first season of streaming games directly to mobile devices, and early results showed a significant increase in viewership among younger demographics.

What to Expect from the Broadcasts

FOX19 NOW promises high-definition broadcasts of the select Reds games, complete with live commentary and in-depth analysis. Beyond the game itself, viewers can expect interactive scoreboards, real-time player stats, and potentially, pre- and post-game shows featuring Reds analysis and interviews. The streaming service is expected to offer features such as on-demand replays of key moments and the ability to pause and rewind live games.

The specific schedule of free game broadcasts will be released in the coming weeks, and fans are encouraged to visit FOX19NOW.com for updates. The initial selection of games is anticipated to include a mix of weeknight and weekend contests, ensuring a variety of viewing options for fans.

Implications for the Future

The Reds and FOX19 NOW partnership sets a compelling precedent for other sports teams and broadcasters. It demonstrates that it's possible to provide high-quality sports coverage to a broad audience without requiring expensive subscriptions. This model could encourage other teams to explore similar partnerships, leading to a more accessible and inclusive sports landscape for all. The success of this initiative will undoubtedly be closely watched by the rest of MLB and the wider sports industry.